WWII German Luftwaffe Pilot Flight Navigator Leather Helmet Cap (Original)
SKU: 183
Original/Reproduction: Original
Availability: In-stock
Manufacturer: Striegel & Wagner Kom. Ges, Lichtenfels
Year Manufactured: 1939-1945
Model: K33
Size: 55
Materials / Construction: Leather, Sheepskin Lining
Condition: Excellent
Price: $350.00
Seller Type: WW2C
Seller ID: KC
Code: 200
Return Policy: 3-day inspection and return policy on used guns and accessories.
Description
This is an original WWII German Luftwaffe Pilot / Flight Navigator Helmet Cap manufactured by Striegel & Wagner, Kom. GES, Lichtenfels — a respected wartime producer of specialized aviation flight gear for the German air arm, the Luftwaffe.
Designed for use by fighter pilots, bomber crews, and navigators, this helmet represents the advanced aviation equipment developed by Germany during the height of the Second World War. Built for both protection and communication, it embodies the technical evolution of aerial warfare in the 1939–1945 period.
Historical Context
As the Luftwaffe expanded its operational reach across Europe, North Africa, and the Eastern Front, aircrew required reliable protective headgear capable of integrating radio communication systems and oxygen apparatus.
Manufacturers such as Striegel & Wagner of Lichtenfels produced high-quality leather flight helmets under military contract (Kom. GES – Kommanditgesellschaft, indicating a limited partnership firm). These helmets were standard issue among:
- Fighter pilots (Bf 109, Fw 190)
- Bomber crews (He 111, Ju 88)
- Reconnaissance and transport aircrew
- Flight navigators and radio operators
The helmet design allowed for secure attachment of:
- Headphones
- Throat microphones
- Oxygen mask fittings
- Flight goggles
Construction & Features
Manufacturer: Striegel & Wagner, Kom. GES – Lichtenfels
Branch: Luftwaffe
Period: Circa 1939–1945
Exterior
- High-quality brown or black supple leather construction
- Reinforced ear sections for headphone installation
- Adjustable rear straps for secure fit
- Snap or buckle chin fastening system
- Cut-outs and press studs for oxygen mask attachment
Interior
- Soft leather or chamois lining
- Padded ear cups
- Clear maker stamp (when present) indicating:
- “Striegel & Wagner”
- “Kom. GES”
- “Lichtenfels”
The workmanship reflects wartime German manufacturing standards—functional, durable, and purpose-built for combat aviation conditions.
Operational Use
These helmets were worn in conjunction with:
- Luftwaffe flight goggles
- Radio communication headsets
- Oxygen masks for high-altitude operations
- Electrically heated flight suits in colder theaters
They saw service in major aerial campaigns including:
- The Battle of Britain
- Eastern Front air operations
- Mediterranean theater engagements
- Defense of the Reich missions
